Interpreting [Interrupting] Youth

The central premise of Interpreting [Interrupting] Youth is to create a platform for youth to be introduced and exposed to contemporary art, artists, curators and art educators while developing skills related to art education, communications, journalism and videography. A second function of the program is to introduce the contemporary art milieu to the perspectives and interpretive modes of Youth.

Designed for youth ages 16 to 24. The program reverses a pre-existing interpretive model used within arts institutions who often produce short videos as educational devices. These videos often include interviews with artists or curators, images of artworks and installation shots; they often reference artists’ biographies, previous artworks, and at times, glimpse into artists’ studios. These videos are usually presented online or within the gallery or museum in close proximity to the artworks, and tend to place an emphasis on the artist’s and institution’s intention over the experience of the viewer.

The “Interpreting [Interrupting] Youth” program inversely begins with the youth’s experience of the artwork, challenging conventional models of art interpretation by overturning basic roles of authority and authorship. In partnership with Just TV, groups of 4-6 youth work in collaboration to produce a short video that will speak about their experience and interpretations of the artwork presented at Plug In ICA.

Sessions run weekly Wednesdays 4:30-8pm and Saturdays  12-4:00 for 4 weeks. The session culminates with a public screening and panel discussion moderated by the IIY facilitator. A healthy meal is prepared for each session.

For more information, to participate, or to register as a participant, please fill out the registration form attached and email it to info@plugin.org

File Download:

Interpreting Youth Registration Form

To see past work from our Interpreting [Interrupting] Youth visit our video archive.